Secondary Air Injection Control Valve Repair Costs
Below are the typical repair costs for Secondary Air Injection Control Valve services based on our shop rate of $125/hour:
Electric Air Injection Valve
Labor Time:1-2 hours
Parts Cost:$150-300
Labor Cost:$125-250
Total Estimated Cost:$275-550
Vacuum-Operated Air Injection Valve
Labor Time:1.5-2.5 hours
Parts Cost:$100-250
Labor Cost:$187-312
Total Estimated Cost:$287-562
Combination Air Injection Valve
Labor Time:2-3 hours
Parts Cost:$200-400
Labor Cost:$250-375
Total Estimated Cost:$450-775
Note: Actual costs may vary depending on vehicle make/model and any additional repairs needed. These estimates include basic diagnostic time and replacement of the valve assembly.
Additional Considerations:
- Some luxury vehicles may require more expensive OEM parts
- Additional repairs might be necessary if related components are damaged
- Diagnostic fees may apply if extensive testing is required
Secondary Air Injection Control Valve Repair Procedures
Vacuum-Operated Control Valve Repair
Tools needed:Basic hand tools, vacuum pump tester, replacement valve (if necessary)
- Locate the vacuum-operated control valve near the air pump or on the cylinder head
- Inspect vacuum lines for cracks, splits, or disconnection
- Test valve operation using a vacuum pump tester:
- Connect vacuum pump to valve
- Apply vacuum - valve should hold vacuum for at least 30 seconds
- Listen for proper clicking sound during operation
- Clean valve and ports if sticking occurs
- Replace valve if vacuum cannot be maintained or if internal damage is found
Electric Control Valve Repair
Tools needed:Multimeter, diagnostic scanner, basic hand tools, replacement valve (if necessary)
- Connect diagnostic scanner to check for related DTCs
- Locate the electric control valve - typically near exhaust manifold
- Test electrical connections:
- Check voltage at connector with ignition on
- Measure resistance of valve coil
- Inspect wiring for damage
- Remove valve and inspect for carbon buildup or damage
- Clean valve if carbon deposits are present
- Replace valve if electrical tests fail or mechanical damage is found
Mechanical Control Valve Repair
Tools needed:Basic hand tools, cleaning supplies, replacement valve (if necessary)
- Locate mechanical control valve on exhaust manifold
- Inspect valve for visible damage or excessive carbon buildup
- Check valve operation:
- Verify spring tension
- Test flapper movement
- Look for binding or sticking
- Clean valve components if carbon buildup is present
- Replace valve if mechanical damage is found or cleaning doesn't resolve issues
Important Notes:
- Always refer to vehicle-specific repair manual for exact procedures
- Ensure proper safety equipment is used, especially when working with hot components
- Clear any DTCs after repair and verify proper operation
- Test drive vehicle to confirm repair success
Note: These procedures are general guidelines. Specific vehicles may require additional or modified steps. Professional diagnosis is recommended for accurate repair.
Understanding Secondary Air Injection Control Valves

A Secondary Air Injection Control Valve (SAICV) is a crucial component in a vehicle's emissions control system. Here's what you need to know about the different types:
Vacuum-Operated Secondary Air Injection Control Valve
What it is:This type of SAICV is controlled by engine vacuum and operates using mechanical principles.
What it does:The valve controls the flow of fresh air into the exhaust system during cold starts. When engine vacuum is applied, it opens the valve, allowing air to flow into the exhaust manifold, which helps oxidize unburned fuel and reduce emissions.
Electric Secondary Air Injection Control Valve
What it is:An electronically controlled valve that operates based on signals from the vehicle's Engine Control Module (ECM).
What it does:This valve precisely regulates the amount of fresh air introduced into the exhaust system based on various engine parameters. It helps reduce emissions by promoting complete combustion of exhaust gases and operates more efficiently than vacuum-operated valves.
Combination Secondary Air Injection Control Valve
What it is:A hybrid valve that incorporates both vacuum and electronic control elements.
What it does:This type offers the reliability of vacuum operation with the precision of electronic control. It provides optimal air injection control across various operating conditions, ensuring maximum emission reduction efficiency.
Note: Regular maintenance of your Secondary Air Injection Control Valve is essential for proper emissions control and optimal engine performance.
Common Failure Symptoms of Secondary Air Injection Control Valve
Secondary Air Injection Control Valve: Signs of Failure & Maintenance Guide
Common Signs of Failure
Check Engine Light
One of the first indicators is usually an illuminated check engine light, often accompanied by codes P0410, P0411, or P0412.
Failed Emissions Test
A malfunctioning secondary air injection control valve can cause your vehicle to fail emissions testing due to increased exhaust emissions.
Rough Idle
You may notice your vehicle idling roughly, especially when the engine is cold.
Unusual Noises
A failing valve might produce clicking or rattling sounds from the engine bay.
Maintenance Schedule
Regular Inspection
The secondary air injection control valve should be inspected every 60,000 miles as part of routine maintenance.
Preventive Replacement
While there's no specific replacement interval, many manufacturers recommend inspection and possible replacement between 80,000 to 100,000 miles.
Environmental Factors
Vehicles operated in dusty or harsh conditions may require more frequent inspections and earlier replacement.
Important Note: Regular maintenance of this component is crucial for:
- Maintaining proper emissions control
- Ensuring optimal engine performance
- Preventing more costly repairs
- Passing emissions tests
Warranty Considerations
Many manufacturers cover the secondary air injection control valve under their emissions warranty for up to 8 years or 80,000 miles.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.